SEOUL — NVIDIA Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang has admitted to an extramarital relationship with an executive suspected of ties to Chinese intelligence. Following the disclosure, NVIDIA announced the launch of an independent internal investigation.

According to major tech outlets including TechCrunch and Axios, the company issued a statement on Sunday (local time) confirming that a special committee of independent board members, advised by external legal counsel, will oversee the inquiry into the matter.

"National and economic security for the United States remains our highest priority," the board stated, emphasizing that these concerns are vital to the interests of NVIDIA and its shareholders.

While the board noted there is currently no evidence suggesting that national security or company secrets have been compromised, it assured stakeholders that all available information will be thoroughly reviewed during the investigation. The board also reaffirmed its confidence in Huang and the executive team, adding that the CEO has pledged full cooperation.

The controversy erupted after it was revealed that Huang had a personal relationship with Alice Huang, CEO of the Singapore-based firm Megaspeed. According to reports from The New York Times and the Financial Times, Megaspeed—a customer of NVIDIA—has faced allegations of channeling sensitive information to Chinese intelligence agencies.

Prior to the formal announcement, Jensen Huang sent an email to NVIDIA employees acknowledging and apologizing for the affair.

"I owe an apology to my family and to all of you," Huang wrote in the email obtained by Axios. "I betrayed my wife, and my actions have caused pain to my family. There are no excuses for what I did, and I am deeply sorry."

Huang expressed remorse for disappointing the people who have supported him throughout his life, stating he takes full responsibility for his conduct. He also apologized to NVIDIA employees, board members, partners, and shareholders, calling his role as CEO the greatest honor of his life and pledging to work to earn back their trust.

Addressing national security concerns, Huang stated that he fully supports the board's independent review and will cooperate unconditionally. "I love my country and this company," he wrote, adding that he remains committed to protecting NVIDIA and upholding U.S. national security. He also asked the public to respect his family's privacy, noting they bear no responsibility for his choices.

An NVIDIA spokesperson confirmed that Jensen Huang will continue to serve as CEO without interruption to his duties.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]